New ownership kept Coal Grove shop from closing

When Indulgence Tanning Salon announced they were going out of business at the end of March, Coal Grove almost lost a popular tanning location. But Cyndi Roth, the new owner of the rebranded Island Heat Tanning, was determined that wasn’t going to happen.

Roth took over and opened as Island Heat on April 1, and slowly began redecorating and updating the site, focusing on a tropical theme. The business won’t actually celebrate their grand opening until June, when they hope to have the location completely remodeled and redecorated. In the meantime they have been setting new, lower rates.

“We’re trying to make tanning more economically available,” explained Island Heat general manager David Markins.

Costs for monthly plans range from $29.99 up to $75. That includes access to up to seven levels of UV tanning, Markins said, with tan times ranging from 8 to 20 minutes per session.

Roth said another area where they are focusing energy is on customer service. They are trying to be more friendly and accessible to their customers, and listen and respond to their needs. They have also established a Facebook page to make it easier for folks to offer feedback and suggestions, or register any complaints.

Roth explained that as part of the push to expand their online presence they are offering a gift basket, valued at $173 and filled with tanning oils, moisturizers, sunscreen for outdoor activities, a t-shirt, water bottle, and more, to one of their fans once they reach 1,000 likes on their Facebook page.

The Smart Tan certified location also offers Versa Spa spray tanning for those who want that tanned look without the UV exposure, Markins said, or who don’t have time to wait for a tan to develop naturally.

“It’s the most advanced spray tan you can get,” he said.

There are 10 standard UV beds available at the location as well, which keeps wait times for UV tanning at a minimum.

Island Heat is open daily from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m., at 600 Marion Pike in Coal Grove. You can reach them via telephone at 740-533-2826, or online at their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/islandheattanningsalon.